TOWARDS SUSTAINABLE FASHION – 26th September in Milan at 10 Corso Como

CHEMICALS, IMPACT & SOLUTIONS

NB: This is a hybrid event. Participants can join us in person in Milan (limited seating) or online via Microsoft Teams from anywhere in the world. When registering, please select your preferred attendance option. REGISTRATION HERE.

ROUNDTABLE CONTEXT
This roundtable is organized with Milano Fashion Institute under the patronage of Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana (CNMI) as part of the Ethical Fashion Initiative’s exhibition “The Cotton Road – A Journey from Seed to Garment”, taking place at 10 Corso Como, from September 25th to the 28th.

BACKGROUND
Chemicals are an integral part of the fashion industry, present throughout the entire life cycle of garments. From the cultivation of natural fibres – where pesticides and fertilizers are commonly used – to textile production and processing, which involves a wide array of dyes, solvents, and finishing agents, chemicals play a central role in modern clothing manufacture. During the use phase, synthetic materials such as polyester can release micro-fibres, and certain dyes and treatments may have direct effects on the skin. At the end-of-life stage, discarded clothing contributes to environmental pollution through microplastics in water systems and the leaching of hazardous substances in landfills and incineration.

ABOUT THE EVENT

This event will offer a platform for open discussion on the impact of chemicals in fashion and the transition towards more sustainable practices. It will feature a keynote address by the Executive Secretary of the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm (BRS) Conventions, who will outline the global risks associated with chemicals in textiles. The BRS Conventions are international agreements that aim to protect human health and the environment from hazardous chemicals and wastes through sound management and international cooperation.

We invite you to watch the recording of the Roundtable Talk, available in two parts: Part 1 and Part 2.